Activities

Gran Paradiso in One Day

Gran Paradiso is Italy’s highest all-Italian peak. At 4061 m (13 400ft), it is an incredible belvedere to have an overall view of almost all the great summits of the Alps. The normal route via Victor Emanuel hut is a classic snow climb, with a beautiful section nearby a suspended glacier and an airy ridge at the summit.

Note: in the Aosta valley it is called “Grande Paroi” (the great face) or Mont Iseran, whereas people in the Piémont region often name it “Monte del Broglio”. In was first climbed on September 4th, 1860, by John Jeremy Cowell, W. Dundas, Michel-Clément Payot and Jean Tairraz.

Point 3, at the base of the glacier at 3 300m (10 890ft): + 565m (1 864ft). We follow the moraine and set foot on the glacier.

Point 4: the summit of Gran Paradiso 4061 m (13 400ft): + 761m (2 511 ft). The route follows a regular 40° slope and is entirely on glacier. An airy ridge leads to the summit.

Climbing times: 4 to 6 hours up and 2 to 4 hours down.The descent follows the same route.

This program will depend on weather and terrain conditions at time of ascent, as well as group’s mountaineering skills and fitness level. The guide will suggest another ascent if necessary.

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: For people in excellent physical shape: from the parking area in the village of Pont to the summit entails a 2161 m (7 131 ft) vertical gain. It is a good speed climbing start. Yet it requires regular training in order to make it a successful adventure.

TECHNICALDIFFICULTY: Hiking experience on glacier with crampons is necessaryPeople who wish to climb Gran Paradiso should have a good experience of the use of crampons on a glacier at high altitude.

GUIDING The group will be under the responsibility of a certified and trained mountain guide, who has a good knowledge and experience in alpitrailing. 4 people per guide max. The guiding policy applied by Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix is one of the strictest in the mountain guiding industry.

MEALSBreakfast and lunch are taken at Victor Emmanuel hut. (2735m/ 9 025 ft). Participants must bring energy snacks (dry fruits, energy gel, chocolate…). Drinkable water is available from the hut to refill your energy drinks. Bring small change in euros for extra drinks.

DOCUMENTATIONValid ID card or passport.Repatriation insurance is mandatory. We strongly recommend the purchase of a cancellation insurance. Both insurance contracts are available from our office (please refer to registration form).

MEETING POINTMeet your guide and the group at 8H30 on Day 1 at the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix, 190 place de l’Eglise in Chamonix.